Api-Api Center, Sabah Airbnb Market Data 2026: STR Report & Statistics

Source: AirROIReviewed by Jun Zhou, Founder @ AirROI
Updated:

How much can you earn on Airbnb in Api-Api Center, Sabah? Based on AirROI's 2026 dataset (April 2025 – March 2026), the short answer is $6,105 per year — at a $71 nightly rate, 27.9% occupancy, and a $21 RevPAR that reflects a wider gap between nightly rates and realized revenue that rewards occupancy-focused strategies.

With just 42 active listings, Api-Api Center is a micro-market where selective demand that rewards strong listing quality and pricing strategy. Supply grew 23.5% over the past year, yet revenue and nightly rates both trended upward — a signal that traveler demand is outpacing new inventory rather than being diluted by it. For hosts, pricing power remains intact even as competition increases.

Regulation is low with minimal registration requirements, pointing to an operator-friendly environment. In a market this size, differentiated listings with strong reviews can capture outsized returns relative to the competition.

What Are the Key Airbnb Metrics in Api-Api Center?

In Api-Api Center, the headline Airbnb metrics are $6,105 in average annual revenue,27.9% occupancy, $71 ADR, and $21 in RevPAR, and guests book about 34 days in advance.

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$71
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Api-Api Center.
Occupancy Rate(?)
27.9%
Lower demand, potentially seasonal or market factors at play.
Avg. Annual Revenue(?)
$6,105
Average annual income for an Airbnb listing in Api-Api Center. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
RevPAR(?)
$21
Revenue per available rental night, combining occupancy and ADR into one efficiency metric.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
37.9%
Strong growth (37.9%) vs. last year.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
42
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.
Avg. Booking Lead Time(?)
34 days
How far in advance guests typically book in Api-Api Center. Longer lead times indicate planned travel; shorter ones suggest last-minute demand.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
July
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Api-Api Center.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
April
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Api-Api Center.
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How Much Do Airbnb Hosts Earn Monthly in Api-Api Center?

Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Api-Api Center is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Seasonality significantly impacts earnings. Our analysis, based on data from the past 12 months, shows that the peak revenue month for STRs in Api-Api Center is typically July, while April often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Api-Api Center across different performance tiers:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $1,850+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $1,176 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $530 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $165, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Api-Api Center

What Is the Monthly Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Api-Api Center?

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Api-Api Center STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Julysees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while January experiences the lowest (low season). Effective strategies, like adjusting minimum stays or offering promotions, can boost occupancy during slower periods. Here's how different property tiers perform in Api-Api Center:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 71%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 51% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 25%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 14% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Api-Api Center

What Is the Average Airbnb Nightly Rate in Api-Api Center?

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Api-Api Center involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Api-Api Center typically peaks in December and dips lowest during April. Leveraging Airbnb dynamic pricing tools or strategies based on this seasonality can significantly boost revenue. Here's a look at the typical nightly rates achieved:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) command rates of $139+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $83 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $64 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $29 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Api-Api Center

What Is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Api-Api Center?

RevPAR in Api-Api Center is currently $21. Because RevPAR combines nightly rates with realized occupancy, it is one of the cleanest ways to compare how efficiently listings turn demand into revenue across the market.

  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see $6 RevPAR.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate $13 RevPAR.
  • Strong performers (Top 25%) earn $33 RevPAR.
  • Best-in-class (Top 10%) achieve $50 RevPAR.

Average Monthly RevPAR Trend in Api-Api Center

RevPAR Insights for Api-Api Center

  • The average RevPAR in Api-Api Center is $21. This metric combines nightly rates with realized occupancy, making it one of the best single-number indicators of market efficiency.
  • The gap between the top 10% ($50) and bottom 25% ($6) is $45, suggesting a relatively compressed market where operational differences yield moderate returns.
  • RevPAR peaks in Jul and bottoms out in Jan, mirroring the broader seasonal demand pattern and suggesting opportunities for dynamic pricing.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Track your own RevPAR monthly against these Api-Api Center benchmarks. If your RevPAR falls below the median of $13, examine whether low occupancy or low ADR is the primary drag.
  • Top-quartile listings achieve $33+ RevPAR through a combination of competitive pricing, strong reviews, and strategic amenities. Target this tier through incremental improvements.
  • Use RevPAR rather than revenue alone when comparing properties of different sizes — it normalizes for available nights and gives a more accurate picture of performance.

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When Is the Peak Season for Airbnb in Api-Api Center?

Api-Api Center's peak Airbnb season falls in July, August, December, while the softest stretch is January, April, November. Overall, the market shows highly seasonal trends requiring careful strategy, which should guide pricing, minimum stays, and cash-flow planning.

Peak Season (July, August, December)
  • Revenue averages $1,011 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 38.1%
  • Daily rates average $69
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $802 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 34.5%
  • Daily rates hold near $68
Low Season (January, April, November)
  • Revenue drops to average $588 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 26.9%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $66

Seasonality Insights for Api-Api Center

  • Airbnb seasonality in Api-Api Center is pronounced. Revenue swings sharply between peak and low months, which means pricing strategy, minimum-stay settings, and cash reserves all need to account for extended slower periods.
  • During the high season, the absolute peak month showcases Api-Api Center's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues climbing to $1,157, occupancy reaching 41.5%, and ADRs peaking at $71.
  • Conversely, the slowest single month marks the market's lowest point — revenue may dip to $532, occupancy could drop to 25.3%, and ADRs may adjust to $64.
  • Lower occupancy paired with meaningful seasonality means hosts in Api-Api Center need to maximize every peak-season booking and seriously consider whether off-season pricing adjustments or minimum-stay changes can capture incremental revenue.

Seasonal Strategies for Maximizing Profit

  • Peak Season: Maximize revenue through premium pricing and potentially longer minimum stays. Ensure high availability and consider tightening cancellation policies to reduce last-minute gaps.
  • Low Season: Offer competitive pricing, extended-stay discounts, and flexible cancellation policies. Target off-season travelers like remote workers, budget-conscious guests, and travelers with flexible schedules.
  • Shoulder Seasons: Implement dynamic pricing that bridges peak and low rates. Target weekend travelers, local events, and business visitors. Slightly more flexible terms than peak season can help maintain occupancy without deep discounting.
  • In a highly seasonal market like Api-Api Center, building a cash reserve during the top months is essential for covering fixed costs during the slow period. Automated pricing tools can help capture demand shifts in real time.

Do You Need a License for Airbnb in Api-Api Center?

Low regulation and minimal registration activity in Api-Api Center, Sabah, Malaysia point to an operator-friendly environment. That said, even low-regulation markets may have tax collection requirements, safety standards, or HOA rules that affect short-term rental operations. Always verify the latest short-term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Api-Api Center to ensure full compliance before hosting.

(Source: AirROI data, 2026, finding no licensed listings among those analyzed)

What Are the Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Api-Api Center?

With a compact short-term rental market, Api-Api Center gives early-mover hosts an advantage in the right neighborhoods. The areas listed below are where guest demand and local attractions converge — a useful lens for investors evaluating whether to enter this market and where to position their listing.

Best neighborhoods for Airbnb in Api-Api Center
Neighborhood / AreaWhy Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal)Key Attractions & Landmarks
Kota Kinabalu City
The capital of Sabah and a major gateway for tourists heading to Mount Kinabalu and other attractions. Rich in culture and modern amenities, ideal for various travelers.
Signal Hill Observatory, Gaya Street Sunday Market, Kota Kinabalu Waterfront, Atkinson Clock Tower, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park
Tunku Abdul Rahman Park
A beautiful national park consisting of 5 islands located just off Kota Kinabalu. Popular for beaches, snorkeling, and diving, appealing to adventure seekers.
Pulau Manukan, Pulau Sapi, Boat tours, Snorkeling excursions, Beach activities
Mount Kinabalu
A UNESCO World Heritage site and the highest peak in Southeast Asia, attracting nature lovers, hikers, and adventure enthusiasts.
Kinabalu National Park, Borneo's unique flora and fauna, Hiking trails, Low's Peak, Guided treks
Likas Bay
A coastal area offering beautiful sunset views and recreational activities. Popular with both locals and tourists looking for relaxation and leisure.
Likas Bay Park, Water sports, Seafood restaurants, Sunset views, Likas Futsal Arena
Penampang
A district close to Kota Kinabalu, known for its cultural heritage and local attractions. Offers a more traditional experience close to urban amenities.
Mari Mari Cultural Village, Local handicraft shops, Landscapes and mountains, Cultural festivals, Sabah Museum
Kudat
Famous for its beautiful beaches and the tip of Borneo. A great place for eco-tourism and experiencing local indigenous cultures.
Tip of Borneo, Kudat Beach, Local fishing villages, Water sports, Scenic coastal drives
Sandakan
A historical town known for its wildlife and proximity to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, attracting eco-tourists and wildlife enthusiasts.
Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, Sandakan Memorial Park, Sandakan Heritage Museum, Rainforest Discovery Centre
Semporna
Renowned for its stunning diving sites and the nearby Sipadan Island. A hotspot for divers and marine life enthusiasts.
Sipadan Island, Mabul Island, Diving resorts, Coral reefs, Snorkeling spots

With 8 distinct neighborhoods showing meaningful short-term rental activity, Api-Api Center offers diversification within a single market. Investors can tailor their strategy — from high-turnover tourist zones to quieter residential areas that attract longer stays and remote workers.

What Types of Properties Are on Airbnb in Api-Api Center?

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Api-Api Center

  • The Api-Api Center Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 78.6% of the 42 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Api-Api Center, Apartment/Condo properties are the most common (88.1%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • The presence of 11.9% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.

Api-Api Center Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Api-Api Center

  • The dominant room capacity in Api-Api Center is 3 bedrooms listings, making up 50% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for families or small groups.
  • Together, 3 bedrooms and 1 bedroom properties represent 76.2% of the active Airbnb listings in Api-Api Center, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 61.9% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Api-Api Center.

Api-Api Center Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Api-Api Center

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Api-Api Center vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (33.3%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
  • Properties designed for 8+ guests and 6 guests dominate the Api-Api Center STR market, accounting for 54.7% of listings.
  • 66.6% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Api-Api Center.
  • On average, properties in Api-Api Center are equipped to host 5.5 guests.

How Do Listings in Api-Api Center Compare on Quality?

Listing quality in Api-Api Center can be approximated through presentation depth, bedroom count, and how often hosts disclose exact locations. These signals show how professionally the local supply base is merchandised.

Average Photos per Listing(?)
26.6
More photos correlate with higher conversion rates.
Average Beds per Listing(?)
4.2
Reflects the capacity profile of the local supply.
Exact Location Enabled(?)
42.9%
Builds guest trust and improves booking confidence.

Listing Quality Insights for Api-Api Center

  • At 26.6 photos per listing on average, Api-Api Center hosts invest well in visual presentation. Listings with 20+ photos consistently outperform in search ranking and conversion.
  • 42.9% of listings show their exact location. Lower disclosure rates can increase booking hesitation — guests want to know exactly where they are staying.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Enable exact location if possible — it removes a common source of guest uncertainty and can improve your listing's position in map-based searches.
  • Use these quality indicators as a self-audit checklist. Listings that exceed the Api-Api Center averages across all three metrics are better positioned for premium pricing.

What Amenities Do Airbnb Guests Expect in Api-Api Center?

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Api-Api Center

  • Essential amenities in Api-Api Center that guests expect include: Wifi, Air conditioning, TV. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
  • Popular amenities like Hangers, Iron, Hot water are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Api-Api Center: Wifi, Air conditioning, TV.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: Wifi, TV.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like Hangers or Iron to increase appeal.
  • Highlight unique or less common amenities you offer (e.g., hot tub, dedicated workspace, EV charger) in your listing description and photos.
  • Regularly check competitor amenities in Api-Api Center to stay competitive.

Which Airbnb Amenities Boost Revenue in Api-Api Center?

Not every amenity matters equally. This table focuses on the amenities most associated with higher revenue in Api-Api Center, which makes it more useful for prioritizing upgrades than a simple popularity list alone.

AmenityPrevalenceRevenue WithRevenue WithoutRevenue Uplift
Kitchen
78.6%$7,442$1,204517.9%
Washer
61.9%$8,487$2,236279.6%
Pool
59.5%$8,681$2,318274.6%
Free parking on premises
71.4%$7,665$2,205247.6%
Refrigerator
66.7%$7,862$2,593203.2%
Dining table
54.8%$8,647$3,029185.5%
Cooking basics
54.8%$8,645$3,031185.2%
Exercise equipment
16.7%$12,948$4,737173.4%
Dryer
14.3%$12,467$5,045147.1%
Microwave
35.7%$9,693$4,112135.7%

Revenue Impact Insights for Api-Api Center

  • Kitchen tops the revenue impact list with a 517.9% uplift — listings with this amenity earn $7,442 vs. $1,204 without it.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Focus your upgrade budget on amenities in the top half of this table. Below-median amenities may improve guest experience but contribute less to revenue growth.
  • Highlight revenue-impacting amenities prominently in your listing title, photos, and description — guests can't value what they don't notice.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Api-Api Center STR Market Data (2026)

Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Api-Api Center. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.

Explore Advanced Metrics

Api-Api Center Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)

Guest Origin: Domestic vs. International
Top 5 Cities of Origin
Top 5 Countries of Origin
Top 5 Languages Spoken
Guest Age Distribution (Birth Decade)

Guest Profile Summary for Api-Api Center

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Api-Api Center consists of predominantly international visitors (66%), with top international origins including China, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Chinese.
  • Domestic travelers account for 34.1% of guests.
  • Key international markets include Malaysia (34.1%) and China (19.3%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (37.1%) followed by Chinese (23.8%).
  • A significant demographic segment is the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group, representing 50% of guests.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Focus marketing internationally, particularly towards travelers from China.
  • Tailor amenities and listing descriptions to appeal to the dominant Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) demographic (e.g., highlight fast WiFi, smart home features, local guides).
  • Highlight unique local experiences or amenities relevant to the primary guest profile.
  • Consider seasonal promotions aligned with peak travel times for key origin markets.

What Are Airbnb Guest Ratings in Api-Api Center?

Listings in Api-Api Center average 4.53 out of 5 overall, with about 35.9 reviews per active listing and 16.7% of listings carrying the Guest Favorite badge.

Rating Breakdown by Category

Guest Rating Insights for Api-Api Center

  • An average rating of 4.53 places Api-Api Center in solid territory. Most guests leave satisfied, though there is room for hosts to push toward the top tier.
  • The strongest subcategory is Location (4.76), while Cleanliness (4.5) trails behind — a useful signal for hosts looking to prioritize upgrades.
  • 16.7% of listings carry the Guest Favorite badge, a strong trust signal that can meaningfully lift click-through and booking rates.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Focus improvement efforts on Cleanliness — even small gains in the weakest subcategory can lift overall ratings and search ranking.
  • Encourage guests to leave reviews after checkout. Listings with more reviews rank higher in search results and convert browsers into bookers more effectively.
  • With only 16.7% of listings earning Guest Favorite status, hosts who consistently exceed expectations have a clear competitive advantage.

Api-Api Center Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Api-Api Center

  • The most common availability pattern in Api-Api Center falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 73.8% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 85.7% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
  • For booked days, the 1-30 days range is most frequent in Api-Api Center (38.1%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 14.3% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

How Far in Advance Do Guests Book Airbnb in Api-Api Center?

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Api-Api Center

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Api-Api Center is 34 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during September (average 62 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in June (average 19 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Fall (46 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Summer (29 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (34 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Api-Api Center.
  • For September stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 62 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Fall season well in advance (at least 46 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Api-Api Center averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

What Is the Average Length of Stay for Airbnb in Api-Api Center?

Guests in Api-Api Center stay about 3.8 nights on average, generating roughly 727 reservations and 17.3 bookings per listing in the latest AirROI dataset. The most common check-in time is 3:00 PM and check-out is 12:00 PM.

Monthly Length of Stay in Api-Api Center

Check-in Time Distribution

Check-out Time Distribution

Stay Pattern Insights for Api-Api Center

  • A mid-range stay length points to leisure-driven demand — weekend getaways and short vacations. Hosts should optimize for quick turnover efficiency while keeping the guest experience smooth.
  • 17.3 bookings per listing is a manageable pace that balances revenue with operational overhead.
  • Stay lengths peak in Mar (4.6 nights) and shorten in May (2.7 nights). Adjust minimum-night requirements seasonally to match.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • With shorter average stays, focus on streamlining turnover. Self-check-in, reliable cleaning crews, and pre-staged amenities can reduce per-booking operational costs.
  • Set your check-in time to match or beat the market standard of 3:00 PM. Offering early check-in flexibility can be a low-cost differentiator.
  • Monitor length-of-stay seasonality to adjust minimum-night requirements — longer minimums during peak periods maximize revenue while shorter minimums fill gaps in shoulder seasons.

Api-Api Center Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (78.6%)

1 Night

33 listings

78.6% of total

2 Nights (9.5%)

2 Nights

4 listings

9.5% of total

3 Nights (2.4%)

3 Nights

1 listings

2.4% of total

7-29 Nights (2.4%)

7-29 Nights

1 listings

2.4% of total

30+ Nights (7.1%)

30+ Nights

3 listings

7.1% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Api-Api Center is 1 Night, adopted by 78.6% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
  • A strong majority (88.1%) of the Api-Api Center Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 1 Night minimum stay, as 78.6% of Api-Api Center hosts use this setting.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 7.1% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Api-Api Center.

Api-Api Center Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)

Flexible (14.3%)

Flexible

6 listings

14.3% of total

Moderate (47.6%)

Moderate

20 listings

47.6% of total

Firm (28.6%)

Firm

12 listings

28.6% of total

Strict (9.5%)

Strict

4 listings

9.5% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Api-Api Center

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Api-Api Center is Moderate, used by 47.6% of listings.
  • There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (61.9%) and stricter (38.1%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.
  • Strict cancellation policies are quite rare (9.5%), potentially making listings with this policy less competitive unless justified by high demand or property type.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Moderate policy to align with the 47.6% market standard in Api-Api Center.
  • Using a Strict policy might deter some guests, as only 9.5% of listings use it. Evaluate if potential revenue protection outweighs possible lower booking rates.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Api-Api Center.

How Much Are Airbnb Cleaning Fees in Api-Api Center?

Cleaning fees in Api-Api Center are meaningful operating levers, not just pass-through charges. What matters most is how often hosts charge them, how high they run relative to market norms, and how large a share of gross revenue they consume.

Average Cleaning Fee
$29
Median Cleaning Fee
$14
Listings Charging a Fee
42.9%
Fee as Revenue Share
6.0%

Cleaning Fee Insights for Api-Api Center

  • About 42.9% of Api-Api Center listings charge a cleaning fee — a mixed market where some hosts absorb the cost into nightly rates while others break it out.
  • The average cleaning fee of $29 is close to the median ($14), suggesting a relatively consistent fee structure across the market.
  • Cleaning fees represent 6.0% of gross revenue on average — a modest component of the overall booking price.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Price your cleaning fee competitively against the Api-Api Center median of $14. Fees significantly above market norms can deter bookings, especially for shorter stays.
  • Monitor competitor cleaning fees regularly. Airbnb's search algorithm factors in total price, so a well-calibrated cleaning fee can improve your listing's ranking.

What Do the Top Airbnb Listings in Api-Api Center Look Like?

Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Api-Api Centerbased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.

Marina Court Duplex Penthouse

Marina Court Duplex Penthouse

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$25,755
Revenue
44.5%
Occupancy
$157.01
Daily Rate
12 pax KK Marina Court Penthouse Spacious 2-story 4 bedroom 4 bathroom apartment in the heart of Kot

12 pax KK Marina Court Penthouse Spacious 2-story 4 bedroom 4 bathroom apartment in the heart of Kot

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$22,936
Revenue
43.8%
Occupancy
$163.67
Daily Rate
Luna Homestay 3B2B (Sea/Sunset View) @ City Centre

Luna Homestay 3B2B (Sea/Sunset View) @ City Centre

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$20,446
Revenue
65.5%
Occupancy
$85.52
Daily Rate
Gee Homestay, full of homely atmosphere/located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu/near Imago Mall

Gee Homestay, full of homely atmosphere/located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu/near Imago Mall

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$17,499
Revenue
64.8%
Occupancy
$73.49
Daily Rate
5 Bedroom Duplex Penthouse (Sleep 14 persons)

5 Bedroom Duplex Penthouse (Sleep 14 persons)

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$17,083
Revenue
27.9%
Occupancy
$190.49
Daily Rate
Marina Court Duplex Penthouse

Marina Court Duplex Penthouse

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$16,853
Revenue
33.2%
Occupancy
$151.38
Daily Rate

Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.

Who Are the Top Airbnb Hosts in Api-Api Center?

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Api-Api Center based on the number of properties managed and estimated total revenue over the past year. Analyze their scale and performance metrics.

Top Airbnb hosts in Api-Api Center by revenue
Host NamePropertiesGrossing RevenueStay ReviewsAvg Rating
Kay2$34,7881144.97/5.0
Yok Hong2$33,571794.69/5.0
Ben1$25,755324.63/5.0
John2$23,8811074.83/5.0
Luna Homestay1$20,446424.67/5.0
⁨Chin (陈总)⁩2$17,362564.06/5.0
Jack1$17,083634.63/5.0
Ikhwan1$12,996494.80/5.0
Clarissa Nena1$11,04195.00/5.0
Shaun1$8,6711504.93/5.0

Analyzing the strategies of top hosts, such as their property selection, pricing, and guest communication, can offer valuable lessons for optimizing your own Airbnb operations in Api-Api Center.

Who Are the Airbnb Hosts in Api-Api Center?

Api-Api Center has a relatively balanced host base.

Superhosts
28.6%
Professional Management
0.0%
Cohosted Listings
45.2%
Instant Book Enabled
2.4%
Simplified Pricing
66.7%

Host Profile Insights for Api-Api Center

  • Only 28.6% of hosts hold Superhost status, suggesting a relatively young or casual market where quality improvements can pay outsized dividends.
  • 2.4% of listings have Instant Book enabled. Lower Instant Book adoption means many guests must request approval, which can slow conversions.
  • 66.7% of listings use Airbnb's simplified pricing (host-only fee), where the host pays the entire platform service fee and the guest sees one all-in price with no separate Airbnb service charge. High adoption signals a professional, PMS-connected host base — Airbnb mandates simplified pricing for software-connected listings.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Earning Superhost status can significantly improve search ranking and guest trust. Focus on maintaining high response rates, low cancellations, and strong reviews.
  • Consider enabling Instant Book — it reduces booking friction and Airbnb's algorithm tends to favor Instant Book listings in search results.
  • With 45.2% cohosted listings, there may be a growing local market for property management services.
  • Benchmark your host metrics against these Api-Api Center averages regularly and adjust your hosting strategy based on what top performers do differently.

How Does Api-Api Center's Airbnb Market Compare to Nearby Cities?

How does the Api-Api Center Airbnb market stack up against its neighbors? Compare key performance metrics like average monthly revenue, ADR, and occupancy rates in surrounding areas to understand the broader regional STR landscape.

Compared with Tanjung Aru, Api-Api Center has 4 percentage points lower occupancy and about $7 higher ADR. That helps frame whether this market is winning more on demand, pricing, or both.

Airbnb markets near Api-Api Center — performance comparison
MarketActive PropertiesMonthly RevenueDaily RateAvg. Occupancy
Kampung Mesilau39$1,306$132.0130%
Kundasang27$1,276$133.5631%
CINTA MATA12$909$142.5124%
Dumpiring Atas10$785$89.4822%
Kudat15$606$109.7521%
Kota Kinabalu1,547$604$83.0431%
Tanjung Aru179$570$63.2132%
Putatan17$458$82.9619%
Kampung Sembulan Lama147$426$92.5126%
Tawau77$296$62.2723%

Frequently Asked Questions About Airbnb in Api-Api Center

These quick answers summarize the most common investor and operator questions using AirROI's latest market data for Api-Api Center.

How much do Airbnb hosts make in Api-Api Center?

Api-Api Center hosts earn about $6,105 per year on average, with an average nightly rate of $71 and RevPAR of $21. Those figures describe the typical revenue environment for active listings in Api-Api Center, Sabah, not the ceiling for the best operators. Source: AirROI 2026 data, Api-Api Center market, April 2025 to March 2026.

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Api-Api Center?

The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Api-Api Center is 27.9%. July is the strongest month and April is the softest, so hosts should expect demand to move meaningfully throughout the year rather than stay flat.

What is the average Airbnb daily rate in Api-Api Center?

Listings in Api-Api Center average $71 per night. The broader pricing spread also matters: lower-performing listings cluster closer to the lower quartiles, while premium homes can price materially above the city average when demand spikes or listing quality stands out.

How many Airbnb listings are active in Api-Api Center?

Api-Api Center currently has about 42 active Airbnb listings in AirROI's market dataset. That supply count helps explain how competitive the market is, how much depth there is for benchmarking, and whether the market behaves like a niche destination or a scaled urban market.

How strict are short-term rental regulations in Api-Api Center?

AirROI currently classifies the short-term rental regulation level in Api-Api Center as Low. The dataset also shows about 0.0% of listings with registration evidence. That is a market signal, not legal advice, so hosts should still confirm current licensing and compliance rules locally before listing.

What is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Api-Api Center?

RevPAR in Api-Api Center is about $21. That metric combines pricing and occupancy into one efficiency number, so it is often a better quick benchmark than ADR alone when investors want to compare how well listings convert nightly rates into realized revenue.

Is Airbnb profitable in Api-Api Center?

Occupancy of 27.9% means Api-Api Center is a more selective market. Profitability is achievable but requires careful cost management, premium positioning, or targeting longer stays to reduce turnover. Average annual revenue is $6,105, but individual returns depend on property type, location within the city, and the host's operating efficiency.

How far in advance do guests book Airbnb in Api-Api Center?

The average booking lead time in Api-Api Center is about 34 days — a moderate lead time that gives hosts planning visibility while still benefiting from last-minute bookings. Hosts who understand their market's booking cadence can adjust minimum stays and pricing windows accordingly.

What are the best neighborhoods for Airbnb in Api-Api Center?

Based on AirROI's analysis, some of the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Api-Api Center include Kota Kinabalu City, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Mount Kinabalu. Each area attracts different guest profiles — from business travelers to leisure visitors — so the best location depends on the property type and target audience a host is aiming for. See the full neighborhood breakdown above.

What type of property performs best on Airbnb in Api-Api Center?

entire_home listings make up 78.6% of the active supply in Api-Api Center. The most common configuration does not always mean the most profitable — operators who identify underserved property types or bedroom counts can sometimes outperform the market average by filling a gap in local supply.

How does Api-Api Center compare to nearby Airbnb markets?

Among neighboring markets, Kampung Mesilau posts $15,668 in average annual revenue with 29.8% occupancy, compared to Api-Api Center's $6,105 and 27.9%. Comparing nearby markets helps investors understand whether a destination's performance reflects local demand or broader regional trends.

What is the average length of stay in Api-Api Center?

The average Airbnb stay length in Api-Api Center is about 3.8 nights. That matters for turnover, cleaning operations, and pricing strategy because shorter stays increase changeovers while longer stays can smooth occupancy and reduce operational friction.

What is the average Airbnb guest rating in Api-Api Center?

Airbnb listings in Api-Api Center average 4.53 out of 5 overall. About 16.7% of listings carry the guest favorite badge, which suggests a meaningful share of inventory is competing on review quality rather than price alone.

Which amenities boost Airbnb revenue in Api-Api Center?

Kitchen and Washer are among the strongest revenue-linked amenities in Api-Api Center. In AirROI's latest dataset, listings with these amenities outperform those without on average revenue, which makes amenities analysis useful for prioritizing investment and listing upgrades.

Do Airbnb hosts charge cleaning fees in Api-Api Center?

Yes. About 42.9% of active Airbnb listings in Api-Api Center charge a cleaning fee, and the average fee is $29. The more important operating benchmark is how much of gross revenue that fee consumes, not just the absolute dollar amount.

What percentage of Airbnb hosts are Superhosts in Api-Api Center?

At 28.6%, there is a healthy mix of experienced and newer hosts — earning Superhost status can still provide a meaningful visibility boost.

About AirROI Market Data

AirROI tracks over 20 million properties across 190+ countries and maintains 15+ years of historical performance data, making it one of the deepest Airbnb and STR intelligence platforms available. The analytics pipeline aggregates listing-level data monthly — revenue, occupancy, nightly rates, RevPAR, guest demographics, booking patterns, and competitive supply — so investors and operators can benchmark any market against its own history and against neighboring destinations.

Real estate investors, property managers, financial institutions, hedge funds, tourism boards, hospitality consultants, tech platforms, and academic researchers rely on AirROI data to underwrite acquisitions, optimize pricing, model macro trends, and conduct peer-reviewed research. Data is available through in-depth market reports like this one and the Airbnb API with 22 endpoints and an Airbnb MCP Server for AI agents.

AirROI proprietary analytics as of 2026-03-31. Metrics reflect trailing twelve-month aggregates from active listings. Revenue figures are market averages, not projections. Neighborhood descriptions are AI-generated and reviewed for accuracy. For full methodology, see the data methodology page.

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